Description
Caribbean Chicken and Rice is a delightful, one-pot dish that captures the vibrant flavors of the islands. This comforting meal combines tender chicken thighs with aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and fluffy rice, creating a symphony of taste in every bite. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe invites you to experience the warmth and richness of Caribbean cuisine right at home. With minimal cleanup required and endless possibilities for customization, it’s a go-to favorite that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in chicken thighs
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (or substitute habanero pepper)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, allspice, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, sear chicken until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, bell peppers, and tomato in oil for about 5 minutes until softened. Add Scotch bonnet pepper and thyme.
- Stir in rice along with chicken broth and coconut milk; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Nestle seared chicken into the rice mixture. Cover and reduce heat to low; cook for 25-30 minutes until rice is tender and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- If desired, add peas during the last five minutes of cooking. Garnish with green onions and cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
- Calories: 545
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: Marinate your chicken overnight for more flavor. Adjust spice levels by varying the amount or type of pepper used. Serve alongside tropical fruits or a crisp salad for added freshness.